The Basics of a California DUI Restricted License
A suspension does not always mean no driving at all. A California DUI restricted license may allow limited driving, such as to work or to a DUI program. Eligibility depends on the person’s history, the type of action and the steps the person takes.
The DMV DUI page says a restricted license cannot be considered at the DMV hearing. Drivers apply for it separately.
Paths Tied to Program Enrollment
California ties several restricted license options to a licensed DUI program. Vehicle Code section 13353.7 allows a driver 21 or older with no qualifying prior to apply for a license limited to program activities and employment. Enrollment in a licensed DUI program comes first.
Vehicle Code section 13353.6 describes another path for first offenders that also requires program enrollment. Other requirements apply as well, so read the section and the DMV forms closely.
A California DUI Restricted License With Priors
Options narrow with priors. The DMV page says a driver with a second DUI offense within 10 years may submit proof of enrollment in a treatment program and proof of insurance. That driver then pays a reissue fee one year after the suspension starts to drive to a program and to, from and during work.
The same page says a driver with a third or later DUI offense within 10 years cannot apply for any restricted license.
Commercial Drivers
A CDL holder must downgrade to a Class C license to get a restriction, according to the DMV page. The article on California CDL DUI rules explains the commercial side.
The Court Can Say No
A court may block a restriction in some cases. For a first offense, Vehicle Code sections 23536 and 23538 let the court disallow a restricted license when it finds the person would present a traffic or public safety risk.
So a restriction is not automatic, even when the DMV rules seem to allow it.
Interlock Restrictions
Some paths require an ignition interlock device instead of a program limit. The guide on California DUI IID requirements explains how those restrictions work.
Living With a California DUI Restricted License
Follow every limit printed on the license. Driving outside it can bring new trouble, and a program can report missed sessions to the DMV. The article on driving suspended after DUI explains what can happen when someone drives outside a California DUI restricted license.